Located near the Sumida River, the Tsukiji Outer Market is a sprawling outdoor retail market selling fresh seafood and other Japanese specialties. This market offers a unique look at local culture in Tokyo, with many locals frequenting its stalls to pick up fresh produce. Browse the bustling market stalls for a wealth of unique items, from fresh tuna and frozen crab and shrimp to locally-sourced beef, pork, and chicken.

You can also find Himono at the Tsukiji Outer Market, a traditional salting and air-drying process used to preserve fish. Keep an eye out for fresh fruits and vegetables, Japanese pickles and the Japanese omelets called “Tamagoyaki”.

Don’t want to cook your own seafood? Check out one of the restaurants around the Tsukiji Outer Market, such as Tsukiji Donburi Ichiba, Jonathan’s or Nigiwaiya Hompo. They all source ingredients locally and serve creative and delicious meals. You can also combine a visit to the market with the nearby Buddhist Hall performing arts theatre.

Getting there

The Tsukiji Outer Market is about nine kilometers from the center of Tokyo and just under 18 kilometers from Haneda Airport. You can get there by catching the Keikyu-Kuko Line to Higashi-ginza Station and walking 10 minutes or riding the Yurakucho Line to Shintomicho Station and walking 900 metres.